30/06/2026
“When I came to university in the 1990s, higher education was tuition fee‑free. If you had the grades, you were in. That access changed my life… That’s why I give.”
For Surrey graduate Narvir Brard (BSc Business Economics with Computing, 1997), a tuition‑free education and a placement at the Treasury opened the door to a career in the City, with roles at major investment banks including BNP Paribas, J.P. Morgan, Nomura and Citi. Surrey didn’t just shape his academic path - involvement in the Economics Society, where he became
treasurer, helped him build confidence, responsibility and a stronger connection to the university community.
Now, Narvir is giving back by co‑funding undergraduate scholarships in Economics, helping students to focus more fully on their studies and make the most of university life, rather than worrying about finances.
Scholar Thiviya “Tiv” Thiyagarajah recently graduated with a First‑Class Honours degree in Economics and Mathematics. The scholarship meant she could afford on‑campus accommodation in her final year and dedicate time to her dissertation on the impact of regional funding on NHS waiting times, while also looking after her wellbeing by joining ArtSoc.
For Narvir, philanthropy offers “a kind of reset” - a chance to step back from the busyness of professional life and support students who are just starting out, just as he once did. A recent visit back to campus with his A‑Level‑age son brought things full circle: the facilities may have changed, but for Narvir, Surrey remains a place where young people can discover who they are and what they want to become.
Read Narvir’s story and find out how alumni support is widening access and enriching the student experience at Surrey: https://www.surrey.ac.uk/news/why-i-give-narvir-brard-bsc-business-economics-computing-1997
